2008 Presidential Election: Why Are You Voting?

Voting is our most cherished and fundamental freedom. An American always knows their voice will be heard through the voting process. The 2008 Presidential election is going to be one of the most crucial in our history. Never before has the United States of America faced so many serious threats to our safety and stability. We have an opportunity to help shape the course of our nation for years to come. Yet I have to ask you this question: Why are YOU voting?

Here are the most common responses to this seemingly simple question.

I'm angry at President Bush/Republicans
I want the War in Iraq over with
I want a black President
I want a female President
I want a Democratic President
I want the credit crisis fixed

None of these are remotely valid reasons for voting for a new President. None. These are votes being cast based on emotions, with no logic to support them. I am appalled when I hear CNN report women are fainting at polling booths, because of Barack Obama. I am deeply concerned that people are willing to vote with their emotions rather than calmly and coldly looking at the candidates and asking themselves key questions that do matter. Like these:

What international experience does the candidate have?
How adept in crafting foreign policy is the candidate?
Does this candidate possess any experience with the military?
What does the candidates voting record reflect?
How well do I believe the candidate will be able to handle a major crisis?
What sort of experience in economics and domestic policy does the candidate possess?

Do I believe this candidate possesses the flexibility to work with both sides of the House and Senate?

Who does this candidate want to fill his Administration?

All of these are critical questions to ask during any election, but most especially this one. We seem to forget about what a HUGE role the incumbents Administration plays in both how we and others perceive us. As a case in point, look at Richard Cheney's negative impact on this Administration. In spite of Condoleeza Rices' stellar performance and quiet diplomatic efforts, other members of the Bush Administration have completely distorted the good that has been done.

The Bush Administration is nearing its end. It is useless and counterproductive to keep droning on about all the things many of us despised about it. It is time to be looking forward and making a decision that is right, good and based on sound thinking. I'm asking my fellow Americans to stop voting with your hearts and start preparing to vote with reason. Look carefully at the candidates and vote, not based on race gender or bias, but on performance. Most of all, vote based on whom you believe represents the best of America.